High School Students’ Preference for Physics and Interest in Learning Quantum Physics

초록

As the importance of quantum technology is rising globally, it has become imperative to include quantum physics in the upcoming 2022 revised National Curriculum of Korea. To explore high school students’ perception on learning quantum physics, we surveyed their preference for physics and interest in learning quantum physics. We collected the student responses using an online survey and analyzed 931 responses overall. Notably, students showed a higher preference for quantum physics over other areas of physics in terms of the emotional response and valuational comprehension, while they showed a lower preference of quantum physics in behavioral volition. Students showed a higher interest in the study of atomic structure over quantum technology or quantum phenomena. They regarded the intellectual curiosity as a more important motive for interest than career relevancy and showed a high interest in experimental and cultural activities over others. The preference and interest of the students in learning quantum physics significantly differed with their grades and the future career paths. This study suggests the necessity to teach quantum physics in high schools as well as the implication for constructing a quantum physics curriculum. © 2022 The Korean Physical Society. All rights reserved.

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